Faltering
Verb
Definition: To lose strength or momentum; to hesitate or waver.
Synonyms: Stumble, Waver, Hesitate, Flounder
Antonyms: Steady, Progress, Advance, Flourish
- She faltered in her speech as she struggled to remember her lines.
- The company's sales began to falter after the economic recession.
- Think of someone stumbling or hesitating while speaking.
Adjective
Definition: Showing weakness or lack of confidence.
Synonyms: Unsure, Hesitant, Shaky, Unsteady
Antonyms: Confident, Unwavering, Resolute
- His faltering voice betrayed his nervousness during the presentation.
- The team's faltering performance led to their defeat.
- Imagine someone faltering while walking due to weakness or lack of confidence.
Etymology:
The word "falter" originated from Old English "fealterian" meaning "to stagger, totter." It is derived from Old Norse "faltrask" and has Indo-European roots.
Historical Usage:The word has been in use since Old English times and has maintained its basic meaning of stumbling or hesitating.
Related Idioms:
"Faltering steps"
Explanation:This phrase refers to hesitant or unsteady movements, usually indicating physical or emotional weakness.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "faltering" with "floodering."
Explanation:"Floodering" is not a recognized word; the correct word is "faltering" for losing strength or momentum.